Occupational Safety, Care of Tools and Equipment
Occupational Safety, Care of Tools and Equipment
This domain tests hazard identification, safe workshop practice, machine guarding, chemical and electrical safety, ergonomics and maintenance. Expect risk-assessment reasoning.
Core rules and concepts
- Hazards include needle puncture, rotary cutter lacerations, press burns, dust, fumes, noise, electrical shock and musculoskeletal strain.
- Controls follow the hierarchy: eliminate, substitute, engineer, administrate and then use PPE. PPE is the last line of defence, not the first.
- Machine guards, needle guards, interlock switches and lockout/tagout protect against unexpected start-up. Damaged cords, plugs and pedals must be taken out of service.
- Chemicals such as dyes, solvents and finishes need labels, ventilation, gloves and eye protection. Never mix chemicals or store them in unmarked containers.
- Maintenance includes daily cleaning, lubrication, belt and tension checks, calibration and a recorded schedule. Tools should be stored clean, dry and guarded.
Worked example
A rotary cutter is used to cut three layers of denim. The risk is a deep cut to the hand and fingers. Elimination is not practical, so engineering controls include a self-retracting blade guard and a cutting mat; administrative controls include a clear cutting area and a cut-resistant glove on the non-cutting hand; PPE includes safety glasses. The reasoning is that the guard controls the hazard at source, while gloves and glasses reduce residual risk. Training alone would not be sufficient.
Traps
Do not treat PPE as the only control. Do not lubricate a machine while it is running. Do not use a damaged cord or remove a guard for speed. Do not ignore ergonomic risks such as repetitive wrist motion or poor seating.